Former SAIGON KICK Bassist CHRIS McLERNON Talks Leaving The Band, History With EDDIE VAN HALEN On The Double Stop Podcast; Part 2

September 2, 2015, 2 years ago

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On episode 73 of The Double Stop, Brian is joined by Bassist Chris McLernon (Saigon Kick, Cold Sweat, Cold Gin) for Part 2 of the interview.

In the second half of the interview with Chris McLernon, he discusses his time in Saigon Kick, including the recent reunion and why he walked away. He also covers his history with Eddie Van Halen, and their bonding over bowling, and finishes with what he's up to now.

On why he left Saigon Kick (33:30) - "Believe it or not - finishing my art history degree. The other thing is the time for it (Saigon Kick). I've got so much stuff going on with me that I couldn't drop it and say no to the commitments and go and do the shows - and not be totally engaged. The choice had to be one or the other. I still talk to everybody, and I said if something goes haywire, by all means give me a call. I'm happy to go out."

On his friendship with Eddie Van Halen (48:30) - "He bursts in the door, I'm playing pinball, and he comes over and gives me a big ole hug. 'How ya doin', great to see ya. You and me - one on one bowling later.' And I turn to my sister and her eyes are as big a dinner plates."

On drunken advice from Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) (54:30)- "I remember being in the Cat and Fiddle and Rick Nielsen comes up - he may have had a little to drink - and leans against the table to keep from falling over. I'm looking at Rick, and Rick's looking at me and he goes 'you guys just got signed, didn't you?' And he was right - dead right. And we go yeah, how did you know? 'Because you look like lambs being lead to the slaughter.' For the next hour he tells us what to do and what not to do in the business - with labels, with management. I'm just soaking this all up. And all of it comes true."

McLernon recently quit Saigon Kick for undisclosed reasons. He issued the following statement:

"To the New World Love Clan of Saigon Kick, I'm leaving my post on stage right. It's been a humbling honor to see you all, and I can't ever express sufficient gratitude for your undying dedication and your love for what we've done. Take care of yourselves, travel safe, and maybe I'll see you down the road."